Gaza: The Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, has raised concerns over the severe food insecurity affecting 1.6 million people in Gaza. In a statement on Friday, Lazzarini highlighted the acute levels of food insecurity currently impacting the region.

According to Qatar News Agency, Lazzarini pointed out that the recent Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report underscores the vulnerability of the progress made since the ceasefire in Gaza last October. He emphasized the urgent need for large-scale entry of supplies and support for humanitarian workers to perform their duties effectively.

Lazzarini stated that UNRWA has prepared food parcels for 1.1 million people and has sufficient flour for the entire population of the Gaza Strip. However, these supplies are pending authorization to enter the region. The IPC report indicated that although there has been an increase in humanitarian aid since last October's ceasefire, including food assistance, these efforts only fulfill the most essential survival needs.

The report further revealed that the existing infrastructure and basic services, such as healthcare, water treatment, and sanitation, remain inadequate to support the entire population. Many residents continue to live in temporary shelters, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the community.